Michigan Man Burns NJ Flag In Response To Houston Tribute

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KALAMAZOO, MI (CBSNewYork) — A Kalamazoo, Michigan man whose son, Eric, died in Iraq in 2005, was outraged when he heard that flags in New Jersey were being flown at half-staff for the death of Whitney Houston.

John Burri decided to burn the New Jersey state flag on his outdoor grill as a form of protest.

Burri said that he believes the lowering of flags should be reserved for those who have given their lives for their country.

“Maybe it’s a little drastic. I know that’s a little extreme but I’m sorry. This is how much it hurts. This is how much of a slap in the face it is to all that have served and given their life,” Burri said.

New Jersey residents, while sympathetic, felt that burning the flag was an extreme measure.

Alan from Waldwick suggested a national policy for flag lowering to avoid future disagreements.

“They definitely should take a look at the policy all over the United States. What’s good for one state should be good for all states, and have a definite policy,” he said.

Burri’s son died when his patrol was attacked with an IED.

What do you think, should the flag have been lowered? Let us know in our comments section below…